Targeting memory Th2 cells for the treatment of allergic asthma

Anti-asthmatic potential of chrysin on ovalbumin-induced bronchoalveolar hyperresponsiveness in rats

“…Subsequent allergen exposure activates previously sensitized Th2 cells resulting in an allergic immune response that is pathologically manifested in the eyes (conjunctivitis), nose (rhinitis), lungs (asthma), skin (atopic dermatitis, eczema), or circulatory system (anaphylaxis) (Epstein, 2006). In asthma, the activation of allergen-induced Th2 cells in the lungs leads to eosinophilic lung inflammation, edema, increased secretion of mucus and recurring bronchospasm.…”

“…The resulting allergen-specific IgE (produced by the cooperation between Th2 cells and B-cells) binds to both allergen and high-affinity FcεRI receptors on the surface of mast cells and transduces a signal that causes the secretion of interleukin-4 (IL-4), IL-5, tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), leukotrienes, histamine, tryptase, prostaglandins, and chymase. These mediators are responsible for inducing the immediate type of hypersensitivity reaction or early phase response (Epstein, 2006). Eosinophils, lymphocytes, alveolar macrophages and to the lesser extent neutrophils are infiltrated due to OVA challenge, which are responsible for more sustained inflammatory or latephase response together with alveolar epithelial cells, bronchial epithelial cells and endothelial cells (Rogerio et al, 2007).…”

“…An imbalance in the Th1/Th2 ratio is reported to be responsible for allergic asthma and there is an increase in the number of Th2 cells and, while Th1 cells are found to be decreased (Packard Khan, 2003). GATA-3 and c-Maf are selective transcription factors (Epstein, 2006) involved in Th2 differentiation, and cytokine production was reported to increase during asthmatic exacerbation .…”

Efficacy and mechanisms of action of traditional Chinese medicines for treating asthma and allergy

“…CS withdrawal is often accompanied by increased inflammation in bronchial biopsies and symptomatic disease relapse. (27) This has been suggested to be due to CS induced overall suppression of both Th1 and Th2 responses. Among the 5 anti-asthma herbal remedy studies reviewed above, some interesting pharmacological actions have been generated from ASHMI studies.…”

Substâncias de origem vegetal potencialmente úteis na terapia da asma

“…A deposição de matriz leva ao edema pulmonar, aumento na secreção de muco e espessamento das vias áreas contribuindo na lesão tecidual com perda de epitélio e alteração nas propriedades mecânicas das vias aéreas (Lazaar & Panettieri, 2004;Luster & Tager, 2004;Epstein, 2006).…”